Well this is a huge deal! The powerhouse corporation NBCUniversal just announced an exclusive deal with Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution for broadcast and cable network television rights in the United States to all of the films in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World franchise — and this directly impacts the Universal Studios theme parks.

That’s right folks: beginning July 1, 2018, all eight Harry Potter films can be seen on NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment’s USA Network and Syfy. The deal also gives rights to air the films across all NBCUniversal television networks, with USA Network and Syfy partnering with Warner Bros. to bring viewers exclusive content that includes extended director’s cut versions of the first two Harry Potter films; the 2011 “When Harry Left Hogwarts” featurette; and 3D versions of the last two films in the Harry Potter series. This also means that they now have basic cable rights to the new Fantastic Beasts films.

“J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World has captured the imagination of fans of all ages, from all walks of life, all over the world…and I’m definitely one of them,” said Bonnie Hammer, Chairman, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment. “I’m thrilled that our networks will be the home for this brilliant storyteller’s magical creations for years to come.”

The most important part of all of this, at least for our wonderful readers, involves the partnership incorporating exclusive content and events for the Universal theme parks. Concordantly, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan now have the opportunity to explore a range of new opportunities including fan events, movie screenings and promotional activities tied to the “Harry Potter” franchise and the upcoming “Fantastic Beasts” film series.

“Each of the Harry Potter areas within our theme parks around the globe build on the incredible stories of J.K. Rowling and the amazing films created by Warner Bros.,” said Tom Williams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Parks & Resorts. “These are special places where the entire family can experience the adventures of Harry Potter.”

The deal also envisages collaboration on joint digital initiatives to support the franchise, working with J.K. Rowling’s Pottermore, the digital heart of the Wizarding World, which hosts articles, features and exclusive, original writing by J.K. Rowling.

“We are pleased to bring one of the most successful and enduring global franchises to the networks of NBCUniversal,” said Jeffrey R. Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Television Distribution. “We feel this is a perfect new home for the ‘Harry Potter’ films and the upcoming ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films. Having all of these films in one place builds upon the existing relationship we already have with NBCUniversal and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, and creates many exciting new opportunities across multiple platforms for both our companies and the fans of this franchise.”

Other News

A Product of

Broadcast Technology is a product of Ochre Media Group - a collective media force with an extensive portfolio comprising of 11 industries and counting. This portal, just like our other counterparts, aims to facilitate business collaboration by bringing together global leaders across a large-scale industry. We deliver commercial insights specific to products, services and solutions by publishing absorbing business information.